Bio-architecture: general definitions
1 Try to explain what bio-architecture is, starting from the meaning of its prefix (bio-). Then read the text
and check your answers.Bio-architecture is a new building approach that respects
life and earth. Its aim is to create 'healthy' buildings with
little ecological impact, creating harmony between
buildings and nature. For this reason two basic principles
have to be followed:- using the natural presence of the sun, good thermal
insulation and natural ventilation to reduce energy
consumption; - using renewable energy resources (solar, wind, water
and geothermal) to achieve energy autonomy.
Bio-architects and designers follow the principles of
natural design that rule all nature, so by studying and
understanding the regularity and balance that we can
find in nature, they try to establish rules that can be
applied to architecture. They use special geometric
shapes, symmetries, proportions, natural patterns and
universal symbols to create pleasant and harmonious
spaces. Bio-architects follow simple rules that include:- designing spaces using natural geometries, shapes and I'r'-='""
growth patterns in order to create sustainable systems; - avoiding 'negative' forms such as sharp angles, and
creating harmonious spaces; - using all kinds of biological materials and avoiding
steel, aluminium and plastics when possible.
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2 Read the text again and decide if the statements below are true (T) or false (FI.
1 Sustainable architecture aims at creating harmony between man and na:_'::
2 Bio-architecture tries to mirror the balance we find in nature.
3 The rules of bio-architecture are very complex.
4 Sharp angles are a good example of harmonious spaces.
;) Steel and plastics are widely used in bio-architecture.